Microbiome Overview

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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'microbiome' primarily refer to?

Complex communities of microorganisms in a habitat (correct)
Large naturally occurring communities of microorganisms
A geographical region populated by only large animals
The genetic makeup of host animals and plants

Which of the following factors does not influence the gut biome?

Personal lifestyle choices (correct)
Diet
Host genetics
Early life exposure

What is implied by the term 'theater of activity' in relation to microbiomes?

The spatial distribution of the microorganisms in larger ecosystems
The entertainment value of studying microbial life
The evolutionary history of microorganisms in various habitats
The specific conditions and interactions of microorganisms in their environment (correct)

How do host genetics impact the microbiome?

Through interactions that influence microbial composition (A) Signup and view all the answers

The main inhabitants of the microbiome are ______

The main inhabitants of the microbiome are bacteria, fungi, algae, archaea and small protists Signup and view all the answers

The microbiome varies based on _ and __

The microbiome varies based on the location and host species Signup and view all the answers

Which factor has the least direct impact on the gut microbiome set point in mammals?

Seasonal climate variations (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about environmental exposure and the microbiome is accurate?

Exposure to environmental microbiota can influence microbiome composition. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which dietary factor is NOT mentioned as influencing the gut microbiome?

Duration of breast feeding (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a genetic factor that may influence the microbiome?

Age of the host (B) Signup and view all the answers

The gut microbiome develops early in life

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

What are the 6 factors that potentially influence the microbiome development?

Genetics, antibiotic use, environmental, infant diet (breast vs formula feeding), route of delivery, and prenatal and perinatal exposure to maternal microbes Signup and view all the answers

What are examples of a factor or exposure that can influence the microbiome?

Diet, Disease, exposure to environment, climate change, stress, land-use changes, captivity vs free range Signup and view all the answers

What are the four products of the microbiome that were discussed in class?

Amino acids, neurotransmitters, microbial metabolites and nutrients Signup and view all the answers

What are examples of the neurotransmitters (aka neuroactive compounds) that the microbiome produces?

GABA, noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin Signup and view all the answers

What role do microbial-derived molecules play in gut-brain signaling?

They signal to the brain via the vagus nerve and modulate the immune system. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How do microbiome-associated metabolites primarily affect the body's tissues?

They translocate through the circulatory system to induce local immune responses. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary method through which microorganisms can influence host immune responses?

Through colonization of the gastrointestinal tract and the production of metabolites. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following metabolites is considered a small molecule that is an end product of metabolism?

Short chain fatty acid (D) Signup and view all the answers

What mechanism mediates the communication between the gut microbiome and the brain?

Vagal nerve signaling and neuroactive compounds. (C) Signup and view all the answers

List some applications of the microbiome in a veterinary practice or in research.

Predict future health or fitness, prevent or delay disease through new diagnostics, better measure of health, tailor diets to optimize health and tailor treatments. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Microbiome definition

A complex community of microorganisms inhabiting a host organism (like animals, fish, or plants).

Microbiome components

Composed of "micro" (small) and "biome" (habitat), describing the community of these microorganisms.